Orofacial pain refers to discomfort in the mouth, jaws, and face. Pain in the oral and maxillofacial region can be the result of any number of conditions, and in some cases, the underlying cause is unknown. Orofacial pain can be chronic or acute, and it can significantly impact quality of life and make it uncomfortable to perform everyday actions such as speaking or eating. At Atlantic Oral Surgery & Dental Implant Centre, Dr. Samim helps patients experiencing orofacial pain with different treatment modalities, including advanced technologies such as photobiomodulation (PBM) therapy. Our office uses the state-of-the-art laser developed by THOR®, the leading expert in photomedicine. We value the health and safety of our patients and want you to feel confident in the high-performing technology that we use to treat oral health conditions. THOR is the only company with FDA, CE, TGA, and NATO clearance with products and services used in over 70 countries around the globe.
What is PBM Therapy?
PBM therapy, previously called Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT), involves using a red and near infrared light on targeted areas to stimulate healing, reduce inflammation, and alleviate pain. This allows us to provide long-term relief for patients experiencing orofacial pain.
The way the laser works is similar to the process of photosynthesis in plants. The light provides energy to the cells by stimulating the production of adenosine triphosphate, or ATP. This gives the cell the fuel it needs to function and repair itself. The laser is adjustable, so we can direct a precise level of intensity and calculate treatment time to optimize cell metabolism, effectively reducing inflammation and providing pain relief.
Many therapies address only the symptoms, while laser therapy addresses the source. PBM therapy can be used to treat numerous conditions including those on other areas of the body such as soft tissue injuries or joint pain. We offer PBM therapy to treat:
- Pain caused by TMJ disorders
- Myofascial pain with referral
- Headache
- Facial numbness, or paresthesia
- Osteonecrosis of the jaw
- Trismus, or lockjaw
- Pain following tooth extraction or jaw surgeries
Benefits of Laser Therapy for Orofacial Pain
Laser therapy is non-invasive and eliminates the need for a surgical visit or needing to undergo anesthesia. Dr. Samim will tailor laser therapy around your exact needs and adjust sessions as necessary so that you achieve long-lasting relief. With such short treatment times, your laser therapy session is incredibly quick and easy.
By correcting the orofacial pain issue at a cellular level, we can significantly decrease or completely eliminate the need for opioids. Instead of relying on narcotics to remain comfortable, we can provide lasting relief without the risk of opioid addiction or negative health effects associated with prescribed painkillers.
What to Expect During Treatment
During your consultation appointment, we will take 3D scans to assess the bone and soft tissue health of your oral and maxillofacial region. PBM therapy is an excellent treatment to consider before undergoing a surgical procedure to treat the issue.
Dr. Samim will direct the laser to the areas causing discomfort and adjacent tissue based on the treatment protocol. The laser will not burn your skin and you won’t even see the laser, you will only see the red light that directs your provider where the laser is pointing. The energy increases circulation, so you may feel a warming sensation during treatment.
One session typically takes less than 10 minutes and should be repeated at least two times per week initially. Once treatment goals are met, we recommend treatment once per week to maintain cell metabolism and keep inflammation controlled.
There is no downtime following a PBM therapy session. Some patients may feel aches or mild fatigue, but this should subside in a day or two.
Treatment for Orofacial Pain in St. John’s, Newfoundland
If you struggle with acute or chronic pain anywhere in the face, inside the mouth, or in the jaw joint, we encourage you to contact our office for a consultation. We proudly offer this safe and effective treatment so that our patients can live healthier, more comfortable lives. Schedule your consultation today for an examination of your oral health and to see if PBM therapy can treat your oral and maxillofacial pain.